Haitian Native Helps In Relief Effort

One Camp Lejeune Marine is uniquely equipped assure the Haitians that the Marines are there to help.

Staff Sergeant Clausele Barthold from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit spent the first 14 years of his life in Haiti, and speaks their native language of French-Creole, according to the Marine Corps.

As the Marines work hard to bring aid to the Haitians, Barthold says they’re beginning to trust them, "The Haitians think that when the U.S. Marines come ashore, that it means force. But after being here two days, and seeing how hard the Marines are working, they are beginning to trust the Marines and become more friendly."

According to the 22nd MEU, after the massive earthquake hit his native county Barthold volunteered to serve and even rallied other Haitian Marines to join the effort. Barthold and 30 others are part of a team of interpreters that support the 22nd MEU’s relief efforts, according to a Marine Corps spokesman.

Barthold says of his service, “I'm overwhelmed with joy to help, but at the same time it's hurtful to see the human suffering. But the Marines are here to help, and with time, the suffering will come to an end."

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